More STIs on Valentine’s Day

Gifting More STIs on Valentine’s Day

Well it seems that most women really do want sex for Valentine’s Day this year, according to a Kindara, survey. So you men (and women) better not think twice when it comes to playing it safe because “Your Sexual Health Matters.” You may be gifted with more than just a box of milk chocolates or flowers, but a life-altering sexually transmitted infection or sexually transmitted disease.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that result from the transmission of certain bacteria or viruses during physically intimate acts. An STI may or may not result in a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that has noticeable symptoms. All forms of sexual contact can spread STIs: Penetration, Oral Sex, Anal Sex, Sharing Sex Toys, AND even skin-to-skin contact.

The human papillomavirus, or HPV, was the most common STI observed by the researchers — it comprised 71 percent of all the current infections (including new and old infections), and 72 percent of new infections.

Even worse is that young people ages 15 – 24 account for half of the 20 million sexually transmitted infections that occur annually.

Unfortunately our youth aren’t the only ones at risk. While young people and women are most severely affected by STDs, increasing rates among men contributed to the overall increased across all diseases; as well as the older generations.

Keep in mind that a sexually healthy celebration of love requires proper education, testing, and an open and honest channel of constant communication. So, whether you’re one of the 34% of women interested in sex for Valentine’s Day or if sex is part of your gifts for Valentine’s Day, consider the myths and facts about STIs/STDs.

Safe Sexual Health Tips:

Do not assume that you or others are being tested for all STIs when you go in for your exam. A survey of US physicians found that less than one-third conducted routine STI screenings of their patients. Even of those tested, half of U.S. adults (18-44 years old) have only been tested for HIV and not for any other STI. Furthermore, there are no definitive tests for either human papillomavirus (HPV) or herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the absence of noticeable symptoms.

Communicating honestly with one’s partner about past sexual experiences and sexual health issues, sharing test results, and talking through the ways to incorporate healthy behaviors into one’s sex life are the foundation of a healthy sexual relationship.

Senior adults need to be aware of unique issues that they may face when it comes to STDs. For example, as we get older, our immune systems are not as effective, which can elevate the risk for STDs. Also, women may experience less lubrication and thinned tissue, which may lead to microtears and a higher risk of transmission.

Also, if you participate in anal or oral sex, throat and neck screenings; as well as anal warts, genital or penile warts screenings and tests.

Women: If you are a sexually active younger than 25, or have risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners, you should request annual chlamydia and gonorrhea tests. Women can also reduce their risk of cervical cancers through vaccination and screenings.

If you are a pregnant woman, you should request syphilis, HIV, chlamydia, and hepatitis B tests early in your pregnancy. If you have new or multiple sex partners, you should also request gonorrhea testing early in pregnancy. Women can reduce their risk of cervical cancer through vaccination and screenings, which is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV)

Men: If you are a sexually active man who is gay, bisexual, or has sex with men, you should request tests for syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV at least once a year. More frequent STD testing is recommended for men who are at higher risk.

NYC Same Day Testing & STD Treatment Clinic:

If treatment for any STD or STI condition is needed, Central Park Medical Associates will provide that during your visit to give you the best medical treatment with the peace of mind you deserve. Dr. Lawrence Jaeger’s caring team of professional and medical staff’s commitment to discretion is unparalleled. Our doctors and medical providers have over 100 years of combined experience in this highly sub-specialized area of medicine and are the true experts in this field. Our high standards have allowed us to obtain a C.L.I.A approved and certified on-site laboratory to give you the answers you need while you wait.